Ann Arbor’s Cavern Club is hosting the first Miss Gay Great Lakes America Pageant, culminating in the crowning its first queen, at a three-day competition starting Thursday.

The opening night kick-off party on Thursday will feature Detroit’s Martha and the Vandellas, who recently tore up the stage at Ann Arbor’s summer Sonic Lunch series. Sally Sparkles, Miss Gay America 2013, will also be on hand, and girl group The Swans, comprised of Raquel Chevallier, Miss Gay America 2005, and Michigan entertainers Jadein Black, Dazzle Dior and Chanel Hunter, will also perform.

Competitions will be held Friday and Saturday, concluding with the crowning of the new Miss Gay Great Lakes America.

“This is by far the largest and most varied production we've attempted in the 15 years the Cavern Club has been open,” said owner Nick Easton. “The pageant is open to female impersonators from all 50 states. Five former Miss Gay Americas will be here performing during the Friday and Saturday evening contest.”

The Miss Gay Great Lakes America Pageant will be held at the Cavern Club, 210 S. First St., Thursday-Saturday, Sept. 19, 20, and 21, starting at 7 p.m. each night. Admission is $10, $15 and $25. Three-night pass $65. Ages 21 and over. Details at www.missgaygreatlakesamerica.com or 734-913-8890.